SB 2818 Summary

• Establishes the Starkville-Oktibbeha Consolidated School District effective July 1, 2015, combining the Starkville School District and Oktibbeha County School District into one countywide district.

• Authorizes the Conservator of the Oktibbeha County School District to issue short-term notes (up to three mills tax levy) and bonds for repairs, equipment, and capacity improvements to elementary schools to prepare for consolidation.

• Allows the new consolidated district board to issue bonds through reverse referendum procedures from July 1, 2015 through July 1, 2024, with a debt limit cap of 20% of assessed property value.

• Requires the Oktibbeha County Board of Supervisors to provide administrative offices for the consolidated district superintendent and establishes procedures for board member selection with first vacancy becoming an elected position.

• Grants the consolidated district a three-year waiver from state accountability and assessment requirements, and authorizes partnership with Mississippi State University for model rural education and prekindergarten programs.